Major Gift Officer

Position Overview

LJI has developed a highly impactful strategy for fighting human trafficking that has proven effective across diverse global contexts. The Major Gift Officer (MGO) will be a key player in driving our fundraising efforts by cultivating relationships with high‑net‑worth donors, identifying significant giving opportunities, and aligning donor engagement with our strategic objectives. The ideal candidate is a proven fundraiser who feels he or she is just now hitting their stride, with a deep understanding of donor psychology, a strong track record in securing major gifts, and the ability to build and nurture lasting relationships with key supporters.

This role requires frequent travel (up to 50%) to engage donors in meaningful ways, including in‑person meetings, events, and site visits to LJI’s programs.

• Portfolio Management
  • Develop and manage a portfolio of 125‑150 high‑net‑worth individuals for major gifts, ensuring a deep understanding of each donor’s interests, motivations, and giving capacity.
  • Create and implement personalized cultivation and solicitation strategies for each donor and lead the donor through the organization’s sales process.
  • Regularly assess and update donor profiles, ensuring accurate and up‑to‑date information.
  • Ensure quick entry of relevant meetings into the CRM system while also following the sales process.
• Cultivation and Solicitation
  • Build strong, meaningful relationships with high‑net‑worth individuals through regular communication, personalized meetings, and events.
  • Develop and execute solicitation plans for major gifts, working closely with the VP of Advancement and other stakeholders.
  • Present compelling cases for support that align with the organization’s mission and priorities.
• Stewardship
  • Ensure proper acknowledgment and recognition of major donors, including personalized thank‑you letters and recognition in relevant publications.
  • Collaborate to develop and implement stewardship plans that engage donors and demonstrate the impact of their contributions.
• Prospect Research
  • In partnership with the director of research, identify and research potential high‑net‑worth donors to expand the portfolio and strengthen the organization’s fundraising efforts.
  • Provide strategic recommendations on the inclusion of new prospects and the removal of others based on their giving capacity and affinity.
  • Build deep relationships with existing donors in order to obtain referrals of new prospects.
• Collaboration and Reporting
  • Collaborate with other members of the advancement team, program staff, and senior leadership to align fundraising efforts with organizational goals.
  • Provide regular updates on progress, performance metrics, and activities related to the high‑net‑worth individual portfolio.
  • Be an active participant in all fundraising campaigns.

• Mission & Faith Alignment
  • Mature Christian faith and agreement with our Global Value to “Abide in Christ”.
  • Knowledge, understanding, and agreement with how the Christian Gospel ministers to “the least of these” (Matthew 25:40) and guides us in our mission.
  • Agreement with our Core Value “Be the Kingdom” (in mission execution and personal conduct).
  • Acknowledgment of our Statement of Faith.
  • Passion for justice and advocacy on behalf of vulnerable populations.
• Education & Experience
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field (advanced degree and/or relevant certification preferred).
  • 3‑5 years of experience in major gift fundraising, with a track record of successfully soliciting and closing significant gifts from high‑net‑worth individuals.
  • Willing to consider an experienced Mid‑Level fundraiser who has demonstrated success in movements management in collaboration with MGOs.
• Skills & Abilities
  • Strong interpersonal and relationship‑building skills, with the ability to engage and inspire donors.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Knowledge of fundraising principles, philanthropy trends, and ethical practices.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
  • Proficiency in donor management and fundraising software.

We offer competitive and thoughtful benefits packages tailored to the specific role and location of our staff.